YORK COUNTY — The York County Board of Supervisors recognized Sharon Owen, longtime manager of the Gallery at York Hall, as the county’s 2024 Volunteer of the Year at its meeting on Aug. 19.
The county called Owen the heart and soul of the gallery, leading a team of over 25 volunteers with unmatched dedication and passion for more than two decades.
In 2024, the county noted she personally contributed 2,269 volunteer hours — nearly half of the gallery’s total 5,842 hours for the year, and an average of 50 hours a week.
“Sharon embodies the spirit of service, and this honor couldn’t go to a more deserving person,” said Kristi Olsen-Hayes, Director of York County Economic & Tourism Development. “I continue to be in awe of her tireless commitment, her kindness, and the way she always goes above and beyond for Yorktown, its residents, and visitors.”
Since taking the helm 23 years ago, the county said Owen has transformed the gallery into “a vibrant cultural hub — supporting hundreds of local and regional artists by showcasing their work in rotating exhibits that keep the space fresh and engaging.” In that time, it added the Gallery has become a vital fundraising source for community programs, including the Virginia Symphony’s annual Labor Day weekend concert, as well as support for local museums, historical sites and performing arts initiatives.
The county also highlighted her role as the driving force behind traditions like Cookies with Santa, an annual holiday event that brings joy to children and families at York Hall.
The Gallery at York Hall opened in 2002 as a collaboration between the Celebrate Yorktown Committee and York County, envisioned as both an art space and a community resource. Under Owen’s leadership, the county said it has become so much more — “a dynamic, welcoming area where creativity thrives, and community connections flourish.”
The Gallery at York Hall is located at 301 Main Street in Yorktown. From April to December, it is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sundays. For more information, visit visityorktown.org.
